Watch Barack Obama comment on his former pastor.
(CNN) - In his harshest criticism yet of his former minister, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Barack Obama said he was “outraged” by Wright’s comments at the National Press Club Monday, and “saddened by the spectacle.”
“I have been a member of Trinity Church since 1992. I have known Rev. Wright for almost 20 years,” he said at a Winston-Salem, North Carolina press conference Tuesday. “The person I saw yesterday is not the person I met 20 years ago.”
Obama said he was outraged by Wright’s remarks that seemed to suggest the U.S. government might be responsible for the spread of AIDS in the black community, and his equation of some American wartime efforts with terrorism. And he seemed to signal a complete break with his former minister.
“What particularly angered me was his suggestion somehow that my previous denunciation of his remarks were somehow political posturing,” said Obama, who added that Wright had shown “little regard for me” and seemed more concerned with “taking center stage.”
From CNN Politics
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I think Obama just lost the race with this last question and answer session. He just threw a friend under the bus to win this election. If he is willing to do whatever to win this race then he is no diffrent then Clinton. He doesn't have to endorse Wrights comments, but to distance himself in this way is rediculous. I was one of the Biggest Obama supporters. I am an African American Man. But to be honest the reason we are even at this point is because of the fear that Obama has to be tough and speak up for himself instead of side stepping tough issues so that he don't offend anyone. This all but proves Wrights points to be true. He feels like he can't win this race being a Black man. So he's black when needed and not so black when it gets in the way of his campaign.
Choking on the truth. If he really disagreed with this man, why not leave the church 15 years ago? Or 3 years ago? Why wait?!
HILLARY 08
What about the Peter Paul vs. Clinton court case, why isn't that being reported???? Or that the Clintons former Pastor received his sentence today for grave child molestation? Where is that. Hillary supporters hope you guys life weights cause your gonna need it carrying all their baggae. wew!!
I think the people have spoken CNN. Whether for or agianst Obama, people want this nonsense to stop. SO STOP! Enough about Wright!
Four soldiers died in Iraq yesterday and it wasn't even on your front page – but the death of a dolphin at seaworld was.
Mr. Obama (the politician) is trying so hard to re-define himself as someone who is in touch with America. His minister of 20 years is arguing against that and for him to denounce his minister of 20 years goes to show his lack of deginity and honesty.
A man of integrity and leadership, Senator Obama initialy gave Rev. Wright the benefit of the doubt since he was his Pastor. When the man overstepped his role and it was necessary to step up he did and forcefully. Hopefully this finally puts this to rest. Well done Senator Obama.
He's "outraged". Right. Anyone want to take bets on whether Wright is standing on the platform next to Obama when he swears in January 20th, 2009?
More lies from a candidate who seems to do so effortlessly.
Now, howpefully the media will drop this monotony and report to the voters the latest news on the actual platforms of the candidates!!! Mr. Obama, yet again, proved he is a leader; he is calm and real.
He spoke honestly and that is why he has the respect of the majority of democrats today. He will be the nominee. He will be the next President.
Great actor!
That was an impressive press conference Obama. You will make a wonderful press President. I can't wait to vote for you in November!
Hillary will never ever in a million years get my vote. No one I know of will vote for her.
Hillary is untrustworthy and unelectable.
This middle age white woman will only vote for Obama.
well said Obama!! Reject and DENOUNCE!!!!
MD
That was one of the worst press conferences I have ever seen. If he cannot handle the pressure of an issue like this and respond without stammering and stuttering, how will he handle the truly tough issues and people that he will face in the Oval Office. All I can say is better we see his weakness now than later.
this is not an issue,that needs to be dwelt upon,anymore.this is what happens, when religion gets thrust into politics,and,when politicians use dirty tactics,to attack each other,personally.obama, once again,has risen above the BS,that does nothing ,but divide us.
Why are Obama supporters all of a suddent so PROUD that he is standing up against Rev. Wright's hatred? Folks - if he would have done this years ago, it would be worthy of praise. Now - its simply Obama's political posturing. Not really proof of a strong leader ... just proof that he is nothing but a politician.
he didn't want to throw him under the bus, but wright asked for it. good job obama.
that's what real loyal people do...give you chances and then act accordingly.
Who could ever listen to four years of this?
How can Obama bring this country together when he cannot get along with his pastor of over 20 years???
Tony-Tx
Obama lied in this press conference .... "he wasn't my spiritual mentor" ... not what you wrote in your book.
He only decided to do this because of the sudden drop in the polls and the upcoming primary. It's called "political posturing" or "damage control". Obama is toast ... Hillary Clinton is our only hope, people!
Senator Obama, it time that you deliver the final blow to Rev. Wright and his ministry.Rev. Wright can go to hell. He is nothing but a self serving idiot that have lost his mind.
I can't stand him go back to the state senate
Big liar!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To late Obama and I don't believe you
This is way too late to be saying anything now. Thanks Obama but no thanks you are only saying what you need to say because everyone says you should say it to go forward.
I'll vote for Hillary or if you get the nomination McCain will get my vote.
I can't stand him go back to the state senate
Big liar!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Give me a break:
You knew this guy for twenty years
Reverend Wright only acted this way yesterday?
How dumb does Obama think Americans are?
Great, Obama.
We love you.